KUALA LUMPUR: The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has urged airlines and ground handling staff to prioritise safety standards when using smart luggage, particularly rideable models, at airports.
With the rising popularity of smart baggage, CAAM chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Captain Norazman Mahmud emphasised the need for strict safety measures, especially in high-risk areas such as the apron.
"Given these safety concerns, it is essential to implement and enforce clear safety measures for the use of smart baggage as rideable vehicles in this area in order to mitigate risks and ensure a safe operating environment for all personnel and equipment." he said in a statement on Nov 15.
Norazman proposed several recommendations to enhance the safety of smart baggage, which often features electric motors that allow users to ride them like scooters, including the importance of establishing prohibited and restricted zones for these devices.
"Passengers and personnel should be informed that rideable smart baggage is not allowed beyond designated areas, such as terminal concourses and waiting zones. Clear signage should be placed at the entrances to the apron or restricted zones indicating this prohibition," said Norazman.
"Smart baggage equipped with electric motors shall be powered off when entering the apron, and battery components must be deactivated to prevent accidental activation that could cause safety risk to ground handlers," he added.
Norazman explained that ground personnel must be trained to identify rideable smart baggage and understand the necessary safety protocols for handling them, with any instance of such baggage use on the apron requiring immediate reporting to airport operators or security personnel.
"The Ground Handling Service Provider (GHSP) shall ensure that all ground staff are aware of the proper procedures for loading, storing, and transporting smart baggage, particularly if it contains lithium batteries or other electrical components that may pose safety risks," he said.
He also explained the importance of educating passengers about the safety measures associated with smart baggage.
He said that airlines and airport operators must issue clear warnings about smart baggage usage through pre-flight announcements and ticketing information, clearly stating that riding smart baggage is strictly prohibited in aprons and other high-risk areas.
"Airports should have clear signage in place to inform passengers that smart baggage vehicles must not be operated in restricted zones like the apron as audible announcements and reminders can also be used to reinforce this message," Norazman added.